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UAE (Dubai)Why study in Germany?
Germany is one of the most cost-effective routes to a high-quality engineering, science or technology degree. Many public universities charge little or no tuition, though you still need to fund living costs, health insurance and a blocked account for your visa.
Admission is competitive and paperwork-heavy. Deadlines for the winter semester are often in summer, so students who start early usually have a clear advantage.
- Low or no tuition at most public universities, with a modest semester contribution
- Highly regarded engineering and technical education with strong industry ties
- Strong research environment
- 18-month residence permit to look for work after graduation
- Central European location with good travel connections
Popular courses in Germany
Admission requirements
Undergraduate
- Indian Class 12 may not be sufficient on its own; some universities require a Studienkolleg foundation year or one to two years of Indian university study
- APS certificate for Indian applicants
- German language proof (TestDaF, DSH or similar) for German-taught courses
- English test for English-taught courses
- Uni-assist or direct application, depending on the university
Postgraduate
- Bachelor's degree in a relevant subject, often with a minimum CGPA
- APS certificate
- IELTS or TOEFL for English-taught master's; German certificate for German-taught
- Motivation letter, CV and references
- Some universities require GRE or subject tests
English tests and exams
English-taught programmes typically ask for IELTS 6.0–7.0 or TOEFL equivalent. German-taught programmes require German language proof at a defined level (often B2 or C1). Learning some German helps greatly with daily life and part-time work.
Application timeline
- Now – Jan Check eligibility, get your APS certificate and prepare language tests
- Jan – May Apply for the winter semester; some deadlines are as early as 15 January or 15 May
- Jun – Jul Receive admission and open the blocked account
- Jul – Sep Apply for the student visa and arrange health insurance
- Sep – Oct Book accommodation early; it is limited in student cities
Cost of studying in Germany
Indicative ranges only. Fees, exchange rates and requirements change, so verify current figures with each university and official sources.
| Item | Typical range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition: public universities | Often little or none; semester contribution typically €150–350 | Some states charge international students |
| Tuition: private universities | Often €5,000–20,000+ per year | Check carefully |
| Living costs | About €11,000–13,000 per year | Munich and Frankfurt are higher |
| Blocked account | Roughly €11,900–12,000 per year | Required for the visa; check the current figure |
| Health insurance | About €100–130 per month | Mandatory for students |
| Flights and extras | Varies | Include deposit for housing |
Planning your budget? Try our cost calculator.
Scholarships and funding
- DAAD scholarships: The main German scholarship body for international students and researchers.
- Deutschlandstipendium: University-based merit scholarship; availability varies.
- Erasmus+ opportunities: For eligible exchange or mobility programmes.
- University-specific awards: Some universities offer awards for international students.
See our full scholarships guide and education loan guide. Availability, amounts and deadlines change each year.
Student visa for Germany
Most Indian students apply for a student visa after admission and after opening a blocked account. The process requires admission letter, proof of funds, health insurance and often an appointment through the German mission in India. Processing can take several weeks, so apply early.
Read our student visa guidance for a document checklist and interview tips.
Work during and after your studies
While studying
International students can usually work a limited number of days or hours per year. Check the current rules because they differ by permit type.
After graduation
Graduates can apply for an 18-month residence permit to seek employment related to their degree. Further stay generally depends on securing a qualifying job.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing APS or university deadlines
- Underestimating the time needed for the blocked account and visa
- Not checking if your Indian degree qualifies for direct admission
- Ignoring German language entirely
- Applying only to a few universities
How MyEdBuddy helps you study in Germany
Our counsellors build a shortlist of universities and courses in Germany that match your grades, budget and goals, then support you through SOPs, applications, scholarships, education loans and the visa process. Initial counselling and documentation guidance are free. We give honest advice, including when a different country might suit you better, but we cannot guarantee admission, scholarships or visas, which are decided by universities and governments.
Frequently asked questions
Many public universities charge no tuition or very low fees, but you still need money for living costs, insurance and a semester contribution. Some states and private universities charge fees.
The Academic Evaluation Centre certificate verifies your Indian academic documents and is required for Indian students applying to German universities.
Not for English-taught programmes, but German greatly helps with daily life, part-time work and jobs afterward.
Roughly €11,900–12,000 per year at present; check the current amount before applying.
Talk to a counsellor about studying in Germany
Free, no-obligation counselling. We will look at your grades, budget and goals and give you honest options.